Journal of the stylistic of Persian poem and prose
volume Number 18، number In Volume 2، May 2025 ، issue Number 108

A study of narrative semiotics in Sohrab Sepehri's The Death of Color based on Michael Rifater's

Somayeh Abdollahian , atemeh Modarresi (Author in Charge)

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Narrative semiotics in poetry refers to the understanding of the narrative of a poem based on the signs in the poem. One of the great theorists who discussed narrative semiotics is Michael Riffater, whose goal was to determine a coherent framework for accurate reading of the text, moving beyond superficial meaning, and understanding the codes. The stages of his theory are: initial reading and exploratory reading. Exploratory reading itself includes the recognition of connotations, namely unfamiliar combinations, descriptive rhyme schemes, and hypograms.

METHODOLOGY: The present article aims to examine and analyze the perceptions hidden in Rang Sepehri"s Death Notebook according to Riffater"s narrative semiotics theory. The method of conducting this research is descriptive-analytical, and the data are collected using questionnaires and studying related sources, and then analyzed using the content analysis technique.

FINDINGS: Since Sohrab Sepehri is one of the poets whose poems are symbolic, Michael Rifater"s theory can help decipher his poems, which will make the reader more present in understanding and receiving the poet"s ultimate purpose and discovering the hidden codes of the poem. It can be said that Sohrab"s poetry can be analyzed using Rifater"s model, and the most important element is the creative and exploratory reading of the audience, which will help the reader to receive the meaning.

CONCLUSION: This research shows that Sohrab began the poems of Daftar Merg Rang with a socio-political perspective and gradually distanced himself from it because the exploratory implications revolve more around the darkness that dominates the poet"s environment. Although the poet acknowledges the existence of people who want to escape from the conditions prevailing in society, he ultimately accepts the despair and lack of awakening of society. In the last poem, he concludes that the black man has no intention of leaving, so it is better for him to be happy and focus more on his inner world.

Keyword
Sign , Narrative Semiotics , Michael Rifater , Sohrab Sepehri , The Death of Color

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